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Diary of an Unsmug Married
What happens to love when life gets in the way?
A funny and perceptive read about real relationships. Perfect for fans of Dawn French, Sue Townsend and Bridget Jones’ Diary.
Meet Molly Bennett. Married to Max and mother to two warring teenagers, she’s just ‘celebrated’ a significant birthday. According to Bridget Jones Molly is a “smug married”. So why doesn’t she feel smug?
Is it because everyone seems to be having a better time of it than her? Or is it that Max has started taking more of an interest in ‘business trips’ and less of an interest in their sex life? Molly is beginning to despair until an old school friend starts flirting with her through Facebook …
A funny and perceptive read about real relationships. Perfect for fans of Dawn French, Sue Townsend and Bridget Jones’ Diary.
Meet Molly Bennett. Married to Max and mother to two warring teenagers, she’s just ‘celebrated’ a significant birthday. According to Bridget Jones Molly is a “smug married”. So why doesn’t she feel smug?
Is it because everyone seems to be having a better time of it than her? Or is it that Max has started taking more of an interest in ‘business trips’ and less of an interest in their sex life? Molly is beginning to despair until an old school friend starts flirting with her through Facebook …
502 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2014
8 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Polly James
2 books27 followersPolly James was born in Wales, but currently lives in Norfolk, which gives her the perfect excuse to complain about how much she misses mountains on a daily basis. She is married and has two (supposedly) adult children.
In 2010, Polly started a comic fictional blog called "Mid-Wife Crisis", which she wrote under the pseudonym of the main character, Molly Bennett.
The blog quickly attracted a large readership and was eventually shortlisted for the Orwell Prize. The whole thing came as a massive shock to Polly and she still hasn't got over it.
“Diary of an Unsmug Married” tells Molly Bennett's story, though Polly's second novel "Would Like to Meet" features a totally different cast of characters.
Polly’s blog: http://mid-wife-crisis-blog.blogspot....
Polly’s publisher: http://www.harpercollins.co.uk/Author...
Polly on Twitter: @Mid_WifeCrisis
To buy "Diary of an Unsmug Married": http://www.amazon.co.uk/Diary-Unsmug-...
In 2010, Polly started a comic fictional blog called "Mid-Wife Crisis", which she wrote under the pseudonym of the main character, Molly Bennett.
The blog quickly attracted a large readership and was eventually shortlisted for the Orwell Prize. The whole thing came as a massive shock to Polly and she still hasn't got over it.
“Diary of an Unsmug Married” tells Molly Bennett's story, though Polly's second novel "Would Like to Meet" features a totally different cast of characters.
Polly’s blog: http://mid-wife-crisis-blog.blogspot....
Polly’s publisher: http://www.harpercollins.co.uk/Author...
Polly on Twitter: @Mid_WifeCrisis
To buy "Diary of an Unsmug Married": http://www.amazon.co.uk/Diary-Unsmug-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
February 13, 2014
Diary of an Unsmug Married is a book by a debut author Polly James. It is based on Molly Bennett's blog, which was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize.
Molly Bennett is a normal woman, with a family. The family consists of a husband, cat and two hormone - driven children. She is working for the local MP and actually her work takes the biggest part of her life. I would say, her life is dull but for sure not boring, especially with a work like this, where the constituents can come to the office and take her hostage, and with children like this, being in a permanent war and not all of them passing their exams, and with a man whom she suspects is having an affair with their neighbour. As if it was not enough excitement in her life, she is being contacted by her old school friend out of the blue, and although at the beginning she really doesn't have any idea who he is, she starts to flirting with him via Facebook. In the meantime there are also some problems with her divorced parents, her father having a late - life crisis I would say, flying to and fro to Thailand to find a new wife, and half - sister with mental problems. So.
But I would not say that Molly has a mid - life crisis, for me she's just living her life, and this life just looks like it looks.
It took me a short while to be drawn in the story and I think your liking it will depend on your tolerance on reading about politics. For a long time I wasn't sure what I'm feeling about this book, as I had big expectations about it - you know, after reading the blurb telling me that Adrian and Bridget can move over. In my opinion, not yet. This book in a form of diary is also hilarious, and there are moments that it is extremely funny but to say Adrian and Bridget to step aside is too much. We can't compare those books.
But this book was in some way addictive and when I got into it, when I got its feeling, I just couldn't put it down. It is written in a very engaging, light way (apart from some footies which kept me distracted all time when they appeared, I couldn't concentrate on the story when I had to read the footies) and I liked the characters. My absolute favourite was Josh and his propencity to accidents, and some of them were so hilarious that I had tears in my eyes, because I laughed so hard. His banter with his sister was fantastic and he was actually much cleverer as he'd like us to think about him.
Molly herself was a normal woman, juggling between her job, house, family and sometimes just wanting to curl on the sofa because everything overgrows her. I liked her, even if sometimes she acted like a typical doormat, either at work or at home.
This book was actually a diary of a normal woman, working mother, about a normal life and perhaps this is why I did enjoy it as much at the end. Yes, some of the situations were very unrealistic, but the rest of the book was like a record of our everyday life. And sometimes it is so good to have a look at this life from aside. It was cleverly written, with a big dose of humour and cynicism. And yes, it would be great to read some more of Molly's diary.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
Molly Bennett is a normal woman, with a family. The family consists of a husband, cat and two hormone - driven children. She is working for the local MP and actually her work takes the biggest part of her life. I would say, her life is dull but for sure not boring, especially with a work like this, where the constituents can come to the office and take her hostage, and with children like this, being in a permanent war and not all of them passing their exams, and with a man whom she suspects is having an affair with their neighbour. As if it was not enough excitement in her life, she is being contacted by her old school friend out of the blue, and although at the beginning she really doesn't have any idea who he is, she starts to flirting with him via Facebook. In the meantime there are also some problems with her divorced parents, her father having a late - life crisis I would say, flying to and fro to Thailand to find a new wife, and half - sister with mental problems. So.
But I would not say that Molly has a mid - life crisis, for me she's just living her life, and this life just looks like it looks.
It took me a short while to be drawn in the story and I think your liking it will depend on your tolerance on reading about politics. For a long time I wasn't sure what I'm feeling about this book, as I had big expectations about it - you know, after reading the blurb telling me that Adrian and Bridget can move over. In my opinion, not yet. This book in a form of diary is also hilarious, and there are moments that it is extremely funny but to say Adrian and Bridget to step aside is too much. We can't compare those books.
But this book was in some way addictive and when I got into it, when I got its feeling, I just couldn't put it down. It is written in a very engaging, light way (apart from some footies which kept me distracted all time when they appeared, I couldn't concentrate on the story when I had to read the footies) and I liked the characters. My absolute favourite was Josh and his propencity to accidents, and some of them were so hilarious that I had tears in my eyes, because I laughed so hard. His banter with his sister was fantastic and he was actually much cleverer as he'd like us to think about him.
Molly herself was a normal woman, juggling between her job, house, family and sometimes just wanting to curl on the sofa because everything overgrows her. I liked her, even if sometimes she acted like a typical doormat, either at work or at home.
This book was actually a diary of a normal woman, working mother, about a normal life and perhaps this is why I did enjoy it as much at the end. Yes, some of the situations were very unrealistic, but the rest of the book was like a record of our everyday life. And sometimes it is so good to have a look at this life from aside. It was cleverly written, with a big dose of humour and cynicism. And yes, it would be great to read some more of Molly's diary.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
July 30, 2016
Diary of an Unsmug Married is a funny and engaging contemporary story of marriage, midlife crisis and MP's.
Contentment seems to be eluding Molly Bennett, wife, mother and Labor constituent caseworker, who has just celebrated a 'significant' birthday. Her husband is suddenly heading off on business trips to hotels he can't remember the name of, her son is riding vacuum cleaners down the steepest hill in the city and she is being besieged by her dysfunctional family which includes her histrionic sister Dinah, her hypochondriac mother and her Thai bride seeking father.
Work offers no refuge, Molly is a senior caseworker for Labor politician Andrew Sinclair, MP (Member of Parliament) and spends much of her time, with assistance from co-worker Greg, tempering Andrew's incompetence. Her other significant role is to handle the irate phone calls and death threats from his constituency, including the serial complainants, the irrational, the entitled, and the odd heartbreaking case of genuine need.
With wit and warmth Polly James invites us to laugh, celebrate and commiserate with her heroine as Molly faces midlife, a marriage crisis, and a workplace that regularly attracts the most dissatisfied members of society. I liked Molly a lot, she is someone I could share a glass of wine with, sympathising with her complaints about her marriage, her wayward teenagers, debating the wisdom of having an affair with a man she barely remembers snogging in fifth class, and laughing at her recitations of the more absurd incidences involving her job.
The MP office in which Molly works provides much hilarity in the novel, slightly diluted by the odd knife wielding madman. As the author once held a similar position to Molly, I hope that James has hugely exaggerated the barely restrained chaos, though I have a sneaking suspicion that it actually reflects the truth. The office is beleaguered by repeat characters such as Miss Chambers and Mr Beales, demanding the impossible. I love Molly and Greg's tradition of 'Writing Honest Letters' (that never get sent) in response to petty and irrational complaints to cheer themselves up, but also their dedication to get those help that really need it.
Diary of an Unsmug Married is well written, the humour never feels forced, the dialogue is natural and the tone confident, impressive for a debut novel. However at nearly 500 pages I thought it was too long, with the pace stalling around the half way point and some scenes becoming repetitive, I could have skimmed through a good chunk of the middle without missing anything except a few laughs.
Nevertheless, I did find Diary of an Unsmug Married to be an entertaining read. It is funny, lively and bold, full of quirky characters and laugh out loud scenes. I'd particularly recommend this novel to women of *a certain age* (like me) who can relate to trying to keep it all together at a time when you are supposed to have it all.
February 18, 2014
After reading this book I have decided that Molly Bennett has the worst job in the world. Employed as a senior caseworker for back bench labour MP Andrew Sinclair in his local constituency she is neither appreciated or paid well for the work she does. Molly goes out of her way to help his constituents who have genuine problems,but when the nutcases walk through the office door she hears the tune to The Twilight Zone playing in her head.
There is no security in the office and life becomes very threatening which seems to go over the head of boss Andrew. It is not helped by Andrew signing a shotgun licence for one of the nutters.
Home life is not running smoothly for Molly as she thinks her husband has the hots for sexy next door neighbour Ellen. On top of that her sister is driving her mad complaining about their father and his love interests in Thailand. Molly can't find the time to question her husband about their love life (or lack of it) between her job and driving her accident prone son back and forward to casualty and sorting out fights between him and his sister,just a normal family really.
I'm not usually too keen on a book written in diary format but I forgot quite soon that I was reading diary entries as the story flowed so smoothly. I loved the character of Molly and really wanted her to change her job as it was so depressing for her even although it gave me the funniest of moments.
One that sticks out for me is when Molly and her co-worker Greg are watching their boss, Andrew on Prime Minister's Questions via the office computer. They notice Andrew slouching further and further into his seat and his eyes closing. Molly texts him to tell him to sit up and at the same time they are fielding phone calls from irate people complaining that Andrew is falling asleep in the house of Commons.
We don't find out until the end whether Molly was right or wrong about her husband Max having an affair but there are plenty of laughs along the way. One of them being an old flame from Molly's schooldays who gets in touch via Facebook, he wants to meet up with her, he looks like Vladimir Putin (which should have put her off) but he is now director of a global oil company (rich).
Will Molly have an affair of her own? Will her husband leave her? Will her dad ever act his age? Will her boss ever appreciate her?
All those questions are eventually answered but not before lots of misunderstandings and some hilarious escapades. I think this debut novel by Polly James is a jolly good read. You might shed some tears but they will be the result of laughter.
Polly James started writing about Molly Bennett on an online blog which later devoped into her first book. She is now writing another which will also feature Molly and her family.
There is no security in the office and life becomes very threatening which seems to go over the head of boss Andrew. It is not helped by Andrew signing a shotgun licence for one of the nutters.
Home life is not running smoothly for Molly as she thinks her husband has the hots for sexy next door neighbour Ellen. On top of that her sister is driving her mad complaining about their father and his love interests in Thailand. Molly can't find the time to question her husband about their love life (or lack of it) between her job and driving her accident prone son back and forward to casualty and sorting out fights between him and his sister,just a normal family really.
I'm not usually too keen on a book written in diary format but I forgot quite soon that I was reading diary entries as the story flowed so smoothly. I loved the character of Molly and really wanted her to change her job as it was so depressing for her even although it gave me the funniest of moments.
One that sticks out for me is when Molly and her co-worker Greg are watching their boss, Andrew on Prime Minister's Questions via the office computer. They notice Andrew slouching further and further into his seat and his eyes closing. Molly texts him to tell him to sit up and at the same time they are fielding phone calls from irate people complaining that Andrew is falling asleep in the house of Commons.
We don't find out until the end whether Molly was right or wrong about her husband Max having an affair but there are plenty of laughs along the way. One of them being an old flame from Molly's schooldays who gets in touch via Facebook, he wants to meet up with her, he looks like Vladimir Putin (which should have put her off) but he is now director of a global oil company (rich).
Will Molly have an affair of her own? Will her husband leave her? Will her dad ever act his age? Will her boss ever appreciate her?
All those questions are eventually answered but not before lots of misunderstandings and some hilarious escapades. I think this debut novel by Polly James is a jolly good read. You might shed some tears but they will be the result of laughter.
Polly James started writing about Molly Bennett on an online blog which later devoped into her first book. She is now writing another which will also feature Molly and her family.
February 13, 2014
Review: I was very excited about reading this book, I love a good diary structure-Bridget Jones being one of my favourite all time books! I got into this book straight away, I liked the chatty diary voice and I found the character of Molly fairly likeable, initially. As the book went on, however, I found her more and more confusing-you never knew what she was going to do next and so I found myself wanting to read about her less as I got to know more about her. There are two parallel storylines going on in this novel, Molly's work life and Molly's home life and I have to say I liked reading about her home life a lot more than I liked reading about her work life. I found the fact that she worked in politics a little boring. That's just my personal taste and I'm sure many other readers wouldn't be out off by this, but there was a lot of talk about party conferences and petty issues within the community the the MP she worked for had to deal with that just really didn't interest me.
The other characters in this novel really were the gems for me. Her husband Max is just an ordinary middle-aged man trying to decipher what women (or specifically his wife) wants. They have two teenage children and these guys provide some real funny moments in the story-as you can well imagine. There is also a crazy neighbour, some slightly eccentric siblings and of course-the mother. You can see why I warmed so much more to Molly's home life than I did her work life. She does make some decisions in her home life that I really didn't like, however, and I found myself rather uncomfortable in parts. Again this is just my personal reading taste and I'm sure these things won't bother other readers (no spoilers of course)!
The is a fairly long book and I do think that some things in the book could've been left out, or told in a slightly shorter way than they were. I admit, there were some political scenes that I skimmed slightly because I just wasn't that into that storyline-don't judge me! I enjoyed having so much meat to the story about her personal life and I was really really happy with the ending. The ending was actually so good that I hope there is going to be a sequel! Overall, this was a good chick-lit novel and definitely a different idea for a storyline. It's in the long side so if that's the kind of thing that puts you off, then it's not for you. But if you're looking for something that will last you through that trip away then this is perfect! There were some really clever and witty moments of writing in this book their sure everyone will love, but it is slightly heavy on the political references for my taste.
The other characters in this novel really were the gems for me. Her husband Max is just an ordinary middle-aged man trying to decipher what women (or specifically his wife) wants. They have two teenage children and these guys provide some real funny moments in the story-as you can well imagine. There is also a crazy neighbour, some slightly eccentric siblings and of course-the mother. You can see why I warmed so much more to Molly's home life than I did her work life. She does make some decisions in her home life that I really didn't like, however, and I found myself rather uncomfortable in parts. Again this is just my personal reading taste and I'm sure these things won't bother other readers (no spoilers of course)!
The is a fairly long book and I do think that some things in the book could've been left out, or told in a slightly shorter way than they were. I admit, there were some political scenes that I skimmed slightly because I just wasn't that into that storyline-don't judge me! I enjoyed having so much meat to the story about her personal life and I was really really happy with the ending. The ending was actually so good that I hope there is going to be a sequel! Overall, this was a good chick-lit novel and definitely a different idea for a storyline. It's in the long side so if that's the kind of thing that puts you off, then it's not for you. But if you're looking for something that will last you through that trip away then this is perfect! There were some really clever and witty moments of writing in this book their sure everyone will love, but it is slightly heavy on the political references for my taste.
January 30, 2014
I was attracted to the book by its synopsis, however I found it didn't live up to it. I really didn't have a connection with the heroine or any of the characters actually. Sorry I just didn't find this book as funny as the synopsis eluded it would. No redemption for heroine not consummating infidelity however I did feel empathy for Johnny, if you can believe it. Book needs editing. I received this early release from HarperCollins UK, Avon on Netgalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2014
What can i say about this besides the fact it is hilarious, it should be made into a tv show. The how book is about life and how crap it is, how little things can make your day just a bit better and how we all look at thing. A cep lit and how you deal with it. This book had me laughing and thinking, 'Yes thats me' all through it and i can honestly say i didn't stop laughing once. Pure brilliant!
March 25, 2014
I was already familiar with Molly and Polly James’ other characters from reading her blog, and while excited at the prospect of the book I was alarmed when I heard the title (and even more so when I saw the cover!) I was worried that Polly/Molly’s acerbic wit and political shenanigans might have been played down (and, I have to confess, the Bridget Jones reference in the title went over my head until someone pointed it out). Anyway I needn’t have worried Molly and her family are just as weird and neurotic as they were in the blog.
Molly is an immensely believable character with all the idiosyncrasies and neuroses of most normal middle-aged women, and like most middle-aged women she is struggling to keep things together whilst also working full time, trying to maintain a relationship and trying to prevent her two teenagers from killing each other or damaging anyone else. And because this is a diary Molly talks about all those things that women of her (and my) age think about but usually don’t dare articulate – especially in this day and age when women are supposed to look fabulous for their men, raise the kids and maintain a successful career well into our old age. Molly worries about very real things: what her ageing Dad is getting up to in Thailand, her mum’s growing catalogue of ailments, whether her husband is having an affair, whether she should have one, what her teenage son is up to etc. All this against a backdrop of her job working as a caseworker for an MP and the motley crew of constituents that seem to spend all their time plaguing the office by mail, phone and in person.
Because Molly works for an MP there is some politics involved - but what there is is the politics of everyday life, and how ordinary people struggle under duress. The political issues are integral to the plot – it is important to understand Molly’s job in order to understand the choices she makes. The human-interest stories also give extra contrast, contextualisation and perspective to the things that are happening in Molly’s own life. Molly and her job are like two halves of a comic duo – one without the other is one dimensional and a bit boring. The book is also an accurate and slightly scary portrayal of modern British society, and it confirmed my suspicions that most MPs don’t know what they are talking about most of the time.
I feel that the publishers publicity department has done this book a massive disservice labelling it as “chick-lit.” Yes the book does have some similarities to Bridget Jones: it’s a diary; the writer is a woman! (It perhaps bears more similarities to Adrian Mole), but there is a whole lot more to this book than the girl gets/doesn’t get the guy. This is a funny, readable, well-written and hugely topical book – and more than that – it is believable in a way that Bridget Jones isn’t.
To me this seemed an extremely accurate portrayal of how the human mind can make something out of nothing (or vice versa) and of the ups and downs of family life. And I am sure we have all met and wanted to swing for someone like Molly’s flirty neighbour Ellen. There is a lot to like here and there were some real laugh out loud (as well as some excruciatingly painful) moments. I am not generally a great fan of funny books but I really enjoyed this one – and it is very well written too – bonus!
Molly is an immensely believable character with all the idiosyncrasies and neuroses of most normal middle-aged women, and like most middle-aged women she is struggling to keep things together whilst also working full time, trying to maintain a relationship and trying to prevent her two teenagers from killing each other or damaging anyone else. And because this is a diary Molly talks about all those things that women of her (and my) age think about but usually don’t dare articulate – especially in this day and age when women are supposed to look fabulous for their men, raise the kids and maintain a successful career well into our old age. Molly worries about very real things: what her ageing Dad is getting up to in Thailand, her mum’s growing catalogue of ailments, whether her husband is having an affair, whether she should have one, what her teenage son is up to etc. All this against a backdrop of her job working as a caseworker for an MP and the motley crew of constituents that seem to spend all their time plaguing the office by mail, phone and in person.
Because Molly works for an MP there is some politics involved - but what there is is the politics of everyday life, and how ordinary people struggle under duress. The political issues are integral to the plot – it is important to understand Molly’s job in order to understand the choices she makes. The human-interest stories also give extra contrast, contextualisation and perspective to the things that are happening in Molly’s own life. Molly and her job are like two halves of a comic duo – one without the other is one dimensional and a bit boring. The book is also an accurate and slightly scary portrayal of modern British society, and it confirmed my suspicions that most MPs don’t know what they are talking about most of the time.
I feel that the publishers publicity department has done this book a massive disservice labelling it as “chick-lit.” Yes the book does have some similarities to Bridget Jones: it’s a diary; the writer is a woman! (It perhaps bears more similarities to Adrian Mole), but there is a whole lot more to this book than the girl gets/doesn’t get the guy. This is a funny, readable, well-written and hugely topical book – and more than that – it is believable in a way that Bridget Jones isn’t.
To me this seemed an extremely accurate portrayal of how the human mind can make something out of nothing (or vice versa) and of the ups and downs of family life. And I am sure we have all met and wanted to swing for someone like Molly’s flirty neighbour Ellen. There is a lot to like here and there were some real laugh out loud (as well as some excruciatingly painful) moments. I am not generally a great fan of funny books but I really enjoyed this one – and it is very well written too – bonus!
July 1, 2014
MY SYNOPSIS
Imagine this: Bridget Jones once said all married women should feel smug. Do you? If you have a husband who no longer fancies you enough, or doesn’t know what you are wearing to bed is a flashy new underwear you bought to impress him, or if he takes long business trips without giving you the hotel information. Should you feel smug then?
Or when you feel your job is the most shittiest job in the world, with no protection, attending some of the craziest constituents and getting backed up against the wall with a knife on your throat almost every time.
You married life, your professional life, and personal (with the super-sexy neighbor who keeps popping in for a cockscrew getting your husband’s attention for a few more seconds than you would) is in shambles. And proving you can still be fun and flirtatious and attractive to someone might mean emailing pictures of your butt to an old flame (or whatever he was you are failing to remember) over at Russia.
The crazy life of Molly Bennett summed up for your entertainment.
MY REVIEW
I liked this book.
The storyline was great. One woman married for long, husband hardly notices her anymore, children hormonal teenagers, shitty job in politics, offering wondering if she would be a happily-ever-after pensioner or one going to be stuck in a nursing home, recently sending pics of your butt to an old lover. Brilliant.── ★★
I loved Molly. Very relatable to all the mothers out there who feel they’ve lost some spark in their relationships, anyone with a super-annoying boss and husband and roughly all men in their lives being assholes.── ★★
The characters in the book are amazing. From Molly’s mum who’s worried about her painful backside, to Molly’s dad who loves a little hank-panky with his neighbors even though his hitting seventies, to Greg the annoying coworker, Andrew the dickhead MP who’s more than occasionally not sure what views he’s standing for. Josh, the skateboarding son with no talent (for skateboarding). Connie, the daughter who always, always tells the truth even during an interview for questions when you are supposed to give a static lies to earn the job. A star to these characters and the all the many others that made reading this book a blast. (I could go on and on)── ★★★
The humor in this book is sick. Very hilarious, laugh-out-loud funny. And everyone knows I love my chick-lit hilarious. So more humor means more points for me. But at certain times I thought the author was trying too hard. Anyway, a star to the humor.── ★★★★
I liked this book. But I would have loved it if there was a particular direction to the story, some suspense something moving enough to keep me reading for a long time besides the humor.
Imagine this: Bridget Jones once said all married women should feel smug. Do you? If you have a husband who no longer fancies you enough, or doesn’t know what you are wearing to bed is a flashy new underwear you bought to impress him, or if he takes long business trips without giving you the hotel information. Should you feel smug then?
Or when you feel your job is the most shittiest job in the world, with no protection, attending some of the craziest constituents and getting backed up against the wall with a knife on your throat almost every time.
You married life, your professional life, and personal (with the super-sexy neighbor who keeps popping in for a cockscrew getting your husband’s attention for a few more seconds than you would) is in shambles. And proving you can still be fun and flirtatious and attractive to someone might mean emailing pictures of your butt to an old flame (or whatever he was you are failing to remember) over at Russia.
The crazy life of Molly Bennett summed up for your entertainment.
MY REVIEW
I liked this book.
The storyline was great. One woman married for long, husband hardly notices her anymore, children hormonal teenagers, shitty job in politics, offering wondering if she would be a happily-ever-after pensioner or one going to be stuck in a nursing home, recently sending pics of your butt to an old lover. Brilliant.── ★★
I loved Molly. Very relatable to all the mothers out there who feel they’ve lost some spark in their relationships, anyone with a super-annoying boss and husband and roughly all men in their lives being assholes.── ★★
The characters in the book are amazing. From Molly’s mum who’s worried about her painful backside, to Molly’s dad who loves a little hank-panky with his neighbors even though his hitting seventies, to Greg the annoying coworker, Andrew the dickhead MP who’s more than occasionally not sure what views he’s standing for. Josh, the skateboarding son with no talent (for skateboarding). Connie, the daughter who always, always tells the truth even during an interview for questions when you are supposed to give a static lies to earn the job. A star to these characters and the all the many others that made reading this book a blast. (I could go on and on)── ★★★
The humor in this book is sick. Very hilarious, laugh-out-loud funny. And everyone knows I love my chick-lit hilarious. So more humor means more points for me. But at certain times I thought the author was trying too hard. Anyway, a star to the humor.── ★★★★
I liked this book. But I would have loved it if there was a particular direction to the story, some suspense something moving enough to keep me reading for a long time besides the humor.
February 18, 2014
Readers of a certain age will recognised the term 'smug married'; invented by the one and only Bridget Jones in her own famous diary.
Molly Bennett is far from smug, she is most definitely unsmug. Molly's diary details her everyday life and focusses mainly on her family and work. Family is husband Max who seems to be a little preoccupied with working out and catching the eye of their new (attractive) neighbour. Molly also has to share her home with two teenagers who can't really stand each other, and their antics are where most of the laughs come from.
Molly works for her local MP, in his constituency office, he's a bit of an idiot and Molly really hates her job.
Molly has just celebrated a 'landmark' birthday, and to be honest she feels like life is just coming apart, and then she receives some messages on Facebook, and then she starts to consider ..
The Diary of an Unsmug Married is a fairly quick and very easy read, despite it's length. Molly is one of those women who make the rest of us feel OK, or smug about ourselves! I enjoyed reading about her home and family, especially some of the children's antics, but really couldn't connect with the stories about life at the office. Molly works for a politician, so it's natural that the book centres heavily on political issues, and although there is a lightness to this aspect of the diary, I began to lose interest very quickly in those parts and much preferred the time spent with the family.
Without the politics, I would have loved this book, but the details of Molly's work and 'The Boss' just annoyed me after a while, so although I do think this is a light-hearted, genuinely funny book, I can't say that I loved it.
I do like the diary style that it's written in though. Short and to the point and keeps the story moving along nicely, well apart from when The Boss rears his head, but that's what Molly thinks too!
On the whole, The Diary of an Unsmug Married is an honest look at the life of a stressed out, middle-aged woman. It's funny in parts, it's very realistic, but for me, it did have it's downside - and that was the politics.
Molly Bennett is far from smug, she is most definitely unsmug. Molly's diary details her everyday life and focusses mainly on her family and work. Family is husband Max who seems to be a little preoccupied with working out and catching the eye of their new (attractive) neighbour. Molly also has to share her home with two teenagers who can't really stand each other, and their antics are where most of the laughs come from.
Molly works for her local MP, in his constituency office, he's a bit of an idiot and Molly really hates her job.
Molly has just celebrated a 'landmark' birthday, and to be honest she feels like life is just coming apart, and then she receives some messages on Facebook, and then she starts to consider ..
The Diary of an Unsmug Married is a fairly quick and very easy read, despite it's length. Molly is one of those women who make the rest of us feel OK, or smug about ourselves! I enjoyed reading about her home and family, especially some of the children's antics, but really couldn't connect with the stories about life at the office. Molly works for a politician, so it's natural that the book centres heavily on political issues, and although there is a lightness to this aspect of the diary, I began to lose interest very quickly in those parts and much preferred the time spent with the family.
Without the politics, I would have loved this book, but the details of Molly's work and 'The Boss' just annoyed me after a while, so although I do think this is a light-hearted, genuinely funny book, I can't say that I loved it.
I do like the diary style that it's written in though. Short and to the point and keeps the story moving along nicely, well apart from when The Boss rears his head, but that's what Molly thinks too!
On the whole, The Diary of an Unsmug Married is an honest look at the life of a stressed out, middle-aged woman. It's funny in parts, it's very realistic, but for me, it did have it's downside - and that was the politics.
February 15, 2014
Does the term "smug marrieds" sound familiar? Yep, you've got it right! It's from Bridget Jones's Diary and since I really enjoyed the Bridget Jones books, I was so thrilled to read Diary of an Unsmug Married!
The book follows the life of Molly Bennett, a middle-aged woman who is juggling motherhood and her work as well as trying very hard to maintaining her relationship with her husband, Max. But things go bad when her husband turns into a total work-out buff and shows less interest in their sex life. And to top it off, her old school friend starts sending her flirty messages on Facebook. And... being in the middle of a crossfire between her two teenage children. Surely, life can't get in the way of love, even when you promise to love each other for better, for worse..
Diary of an Unsmug Married is actually a very funny, light-hearted book which will definitely give you a few laughs. Okay, scratch that. Barrels of laughs. The heroine, Molly has a very distinct way of reaching out to her readers and for that, I like her a lot. Watch out for her hilarious punchlines and unmissable humour.
Since the book is written in a diary-form, it's all about Molly's everyday musings and thoughts, but there's one thing that didn't appeal to me, which is Molly's job. I found her job quite tedious and taxing and it was a bit tiresome to read about her whine about her job. I feel like I couldn't relate to Molly's job but maybe it's due to my reading preferences. I guess it's just me, but there were a few scenes that the book could do without. Other than that, Diary of an Unsmug Married is really funny and original.
All in all, Diary of an Unsmug Married is a breath of fresh air, it's got a wonderful heroine, an array of zany characters and quite a good plot. But for me, I'd prefer something lighter and less loaded on political insights. To make up for that, there are a few redeeming factors, which are the heroine's wit and a handful of laugh-out-loud moments.
Rating: 7/10
The book follows the life of Molly Bennett, a middle-aged woman who is juggling motherhood and her work as well as trying very hard to maintaining her relationship with her husband, Max. But things go bad when her husband turns into a total work-out buff and shows less interest in their sex life. And to top it off, her old school friend starts sending her flirty messages on Facebook. And... being in the middle of a crossfire between her two teenage children. Surely, life can't get in the way of love, even when you promise to love each other for better, for worse..
Diary of an Unsmug Married is actually a very funny, light-hearted book which will definitely give you a few laughs. Okay, scratch that. Barrels of laughs. The heroine, Molly has a very distinct way of reaching out to her readers and for that, I like her a lot. Watch out for her hilarious punchlines and unmissable humour.
Since the book is written in a diary-form, it's all about Molly's everyday musings and thoughts, but there's one thing that didn't appeal to me, which is Molly's job. I found her job quite tedious and taxing and it was a bit tiresome to read about her whine about her job. I feel like I couldn't relate to Molly's job but maybe it's due to my reading preferences. I guess it's just me, but there were a few scenes that the book could do without. Other than that, Diary of an Unsmug Married is really funny and original.
All in all, Diary of an Unsmug Married is a breath of fresh air, it's got a wonderful heroine, an array of zany characters and quite a good plot. But for me, I'd prefer something lighter and less loaded on political insights. To make up for that, there are a few redeeming factors, which are the heroine's wit and a handful of laugh-out-loud moments.
Rating: 7/10
March 21, 2014
Review for Chick Lit Central: www.chicklitcentral.com
Have you ever wondered what would have happened to Bridget Jones, if she married the love of her life, Mark Darcy? Settled down, had a couple of kids?
Wonder no longer. Read Diary of an Unsmug Married.
Molly Bennett (who reminds me of an older Bridget Jones) is married to Max (her Mark Darcy), and they have two children who were once adorable, but are now in that obnoxious teenager/almost adult stage of their lives. Molly feels mildly mediocre; in her marriage, as a mother, and with her career. She just can’t get it together, and it doesn’t help that Max seems to have more interest in their hot sexpot next-door neighbor than in his own wife.
He’s off on random business trips and stays out late, only adding to Molly’s insecurity. The cherry on top, is when Molly decides to play nice, and take the trash out for Max. Max objects, but Molly wants to do this. She wants to be the good wife. Image her surprise when she finds the sexpot neighbor stark naked in her living room window. No wonder Max conveniently manages to take out the trash at the same time every night. Ahem. When a former boyfriend re-connects with Molly on Facebook, showering her with attention and demands to see her assets, what other choice does Molly have?
In Diary..., Molly fights against the mediocrity. She fights against the guilt, the guilty pleasures, and the need to do the right thing, even though the right thing seems to be the last thing she wants to do. She’s unhappy, and it’s hard to express that to Max, who seems to have accepted the mediocrity, which in a sense means he’s checked out. Right?
Often, the truth is never pretty, and the way something appears isn’t always what it seems to be. Out of chaos comes healing. Very true with fiction, and even truer in real life. I enjoyed this book, for it’s candor, and it’s ability to deal with real-life issues that crop up on even the least suspecting among us. Sprinkle in the comedic timing necessary to lighten the mood, and you’ve got Diary of an Unsmug Married.
Have you ever wondered what would have happened to Bridget Jones, if she married the love of her life, Mark Darcy? Settled down, had a couple of kids?
Wonder no longer. Read Diary of an Unsmug Married.
Molly Bennett (who reminds me of an older Bridget Jones) is married to Max (her Mark Darcy), and they have two children who were once adorable, but are now in that obnoxious teenager/almost adult stage of their lives. Molly feels mildly mediocre; in her marriage, as a mother, and with her career. She just can’t get it together, and it doesn’t help that Max seems to have more interest in their hot sexpot next-door neighbor than in his own wife.
He’s off on random business trips and stays out late, only adding to Molly’s insecurity. The cherry on top, is when Molly decides to play nice, and take the trash out for Max. Max objects, but Molly wants to do this. She wants to be the good wife. Image her surprise when she finds the sexpot neighbor stark naked in her living room window. No wonder Max conveniently manages to take out the trash at the same time every night. Ahem. When a former boyfriend re-connects with Molly on Facebook, showering her with attention and demands to see her assets, what other choice does Molly have?
In Diary..., Molly fights against the mediocrity. She fights against the guilt, the guilty pleasures, and the need to do the right thing, even though the right thing seems to be the last thing she wants to do. She’s unhappy, and it’s hard to express that to Max, who seems to have accepted the mediocrity, which in a sense means he’s checked out. Right?
Often, the truth is never pretty, and the way something appears isn’t always what it seems to be. Out of chaos comes healing. Very true with fiction, and even truer in real life. I enjoyed this book, for it’s candor, and it’s ability to deal with real-life issues that crop up on even the least suspecting among us. Sprinkle in the comedic timing necessary to lighten the mood, and you’ve got Diary of an Unsmug Married.
April 21, 2014
Molly is far from a Smug Married. Working as a caseworker for the local Labour MP, married to Max whose eye seems to be on Annoying Ellen next door, mother to two teenagers who hate each other and with what has to be the world’s most eccentric father and dramatic sister, it’s no wonder that Molly think she has nothing to be smug about!
Juggling a posse of semi-crazy constituents, her work shy boss, listening to her mum talk about her ailments, striving to keep her father from becoming entangled with a Thai bride and trying to boost her own sex life is no laughing matter so an email from an old school friend, in fact an old love interest, makes life a bit more interesting all of a sudden – even if Molly can’t remember who, where or what....and if Max can make time for sex mad neighbour Ellen then Molly can email flirt with an old flame surely?
Chock full of mishaps and misunderstandings this makes for a very amusing read. Initially it took me a while to get into because of all the footnotes about politic related sayings but as I got further in I did find myself enjoying the intricacies of Molly’s family life. Diary style writing doesn’t always work but in this there is ample opportunity to witness the observations and subtle nuances of family life that actually do make up real family life – though not always with a sex mad neighbour and a politician! The teenage psyche is particularly amusing- and cringy – I mean, obviously flexi-time should mean you work when you want right? And who hasn’t listened to a friend saying they never revise only to be gutted when they get the A* and have been blatantly exaggerating?! It is full of the small details, keenly observed, that life is full of and which make up the majority of the laughs in this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC copy of this book.
Juggling a posse of semi-crazy constituents, her work shy boss, listening to her mum talk about her ailments, striving to keep her father from becoming entangled with a Thai bride and trying to boost her own sex life is no laughing matter so an email from an old school friend, in fact an old love interest, makes life a bit more interesting all of a sudden – even if Molly can’t remember who, where or what....and if Max can make time for sex mad neighbour Ellen then Molly can email flirt with an old flame surely?
Chock full of mishaps and misunderstandings this makes for a very amusing read. Initially it took me a while to get into because of all the footnotes about politic related sayings but as I got further in I did find myself enjoying the intricacies of Molly’s family life. Diary style writing doesn’t always work but in this there is ample opportunity to witness the observations and subtle nuances of family life that actually do make up real family life – though not always with a sex mad neighbour and a politician! The teenage psyche is particularly amusing- and cringy – I mean, obviously flexi-time should mean you work when you want right? And who hasn’t listened to a friend saying they never revise only to be gutted when they get the A* and have been blatantly exaggerating?! It is full of the small details, keenly observed, that life is full of and which make up the majority of the laughs in this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC copy of this book.
July 1, 2014
Nothing wrong with chicklit, which is what the cover promises - but this is a bit more meaty than yer usual 'will she, won't she, oh Lord he's so DREAMY' mush. Polly James is a round character with a brain and a nice line in observation as things fall apart around her. Her unusual job is the perfect vehicle to introduce a steady stream of antagonists, and the 'political' elements help to bring everything into three dimensions. (If you're put off by the 'political' elements, you should probably avoid 'Fawlty Towers', as it's packed full of stuff that would only really appeal to hotel management geeks). The main impression is that the author's got a distinct voice; will be interesting to see what she writes next.
March 19, 2015
I loved reading this book.
This is not run of the mill brainless chick lit that some people may enjoy, it is a clever and witty portrayal of modern life and relationships.
It includes hilarious anecdotes of her career working for an MP - clearly confusing for some??! - but I thought brilliant.
With wonderfully thought out, diverse characters there is someone for every reader to relate to - and be enthralled by.
The main character herself is easy to relate to - admire, envy and question - as she goes through twists and turns - I found myself reading on wondering what she would do next and indeed what I would do if I were (lucky enough to be??) her!!
I cannot wait for the sequel!
Fabulous book :)
This is not run of the mill brainless chick lit that some people may enjoy, it is a clever and witty portrayal of modern life and relationships.
It includes hilarious anecdotes of her career working for an MP - clearly confusing for some??! - but I thought brilliant.
With wonderfully thought out, diverse characters there is someone for every reader to relate to - and be enthralled by.
The main character herself is easy to relate to - admire, envy and question - as she goes through twists and turns - I found myself reading on wondering what she would do next and indeed what I would do if I were (lucky enough to be??) her!!
I cannot wait for the sequel!
Fabulous book :)
June 22, 2015
I really disliked the main character Molly - she is erratic, self sabotaging and completely self involved. I think that was supposed to be funny but I find real life people like Molly exhausting so reading the thoughts of someone like this wasn't that enjoyable for me. I did find Greg's character quite funny and Annoying Ellen kept things interesting. I didn't have any laugh out loud moments reading this, and I certainly didn't think it read like Bridget Jones' Diary. Overall, filled in some lazy time but wouldn't bother to read another Polly James novel.
April 17, 2014
A very amusing read following in the uncertainties of a long marriage after reaching a milestone birthday. A typical family Molly, max and two teenagers with a sexy neighbour, an old sweetheart and a dysfunctional family with the added bonus of a politician boss and the worst constituents you could dream up.
I loved every minute of this book, laughing out loud several times.
I look forward to more books by Polly James, and soon I hope!
I loved every minute of this book, laughing out loud several times.
I look forward to more books by Polly James, and soon I hope!
October 28, 2014
"Her job is hilarious (working for the local MP) as she has to deal with all the nutters that those who work in public service will undoubtedly recognize and forms this chaotic background to her attempts to find romance within (as well as out of?) her marriage"
read more: http://likeiamfeasting.blogspot.gr/20...
read more: http://likeiamfeasting.blogspot.gr/20...
February 2, 2014
I found this book to be very very funny. I thought the dysfunctional family that Molly is surrounded by, completely bonkers, but rather endearing. I especially liked the trips to Thailand, social networking 'issues', postings of dog poo and the farcical MP to be highly entertaining!
Eagerly looking forward to the next instalment.
Eagerly looking forward to the next instalment.
February 5, 2014
A modern comedy of manners with a layer of political insight - that is insight into the very inner workings of politics that we never usually get to see. The chaos and battle of egos that reigns in a constituency office explains quite a lot - and yet most people there are just trying their hardest to do the right thing. Very funny and engaging and endearingly romantic.
August 21, 2014
I loved this novel. It's kind of Bridget Jones meets the Thick of It and it is one of the funniest novels I've read in ages. This is a novel I've had on the go for the last 6 weeks or so and have gone to it every time I felt in need of a laugh. Thank you so much Polly James for keeping me cheery. :-))
February 19, 2014
I was really looking forward to reading this as it sounded just my kind if thing. At first I found it really hard to get into and wasn't finding it that amusing. Then it suddenly improved and I loved it. It made me chuckle so many times. I have no idea if Molly's job is remotely true to life but if it is then the people who do it have my deepest sympathy - it's horrendous!
March 16, 2014
I did enjoy this book. I was a PA for someone about 20 years ago so I found it easy to relate to aspects of this in the story. Also, now that i'm a wife and mum, other sections were also relevant to me.
If you are looking for an easy to read lighthearted book I would recommend this one.
If you are looking for an easy to read lighthearted book I would recommend this one.
February 5, 2015
This was actually a very funny and charming book, which again I was lucky to win through a giveaway! ( It's worth the chances of entering these giveaways). I actually passed it on to my sister when I was done as I knew she'd enjoy it and she did.
May 22, 2016
Unexpected and enjoyable
I had no idea what to expect when this popped up on a kindle deal. The diary of a senior caseworker from the Labour party in 2010 wasn't the first thing that sprung to my mind. It's funny and complicated and no one ends up quite where you expected.
I had no idea what to expect when this popped up on a kindle deal. The diary of a senior caseworker from the Labour party in 2010 wasn't the first thing that sprung to my mind. It's funny and complicated and no one ends up quite where you expected.
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June 14, 2016I loved this book.Polly James has written a fun engaging hilarious book.A book about marriage adults coping with real life a workplace you won't believe.For everyone who has outgrown chiclit this is the book for you,
March 12, 2014
Very enjoyable
August 12, 2014
Very funny loved every minute of it
October 19, 2014
Hilariously true to life. Anyone looking for an entertaining, funny, easy read - look no further.
May 5, 2019
Anybody who has read the Mid Wife Crisis blog will be familiar with the characters in this book. It is a fictionalised account of a Labour MP's caseworker and her dysfunctional family, based on the real experiences of the author. Molly Bennett is a pseudonymn of course, as is Polly James, but that does not detract from the world she creates and the many characters she fills it with.
As an elected politician, I can easily identify with the situations that the author describes. None of our clients come close to the rather exagerated caricatures she creates of course, but it is the case that we are often the last resort for many people, who have found no way through supposedly insurmountable problems.
We know too that the threat of physical violence and verbal abuse from frustrated and disenfranchised constituents to elected representives and their staff is very real and most of us take precautions to try and protect against that. Very early on this book deals with such a situation in which Molly is grabbed by the throat and held against the wall by a constituent.
However, please do not let me give the impression that this book is about politics because it is not. It has been compared with Bridget Jones' diary and in some ways that is a fair analogy. But it is much more than that. It is funny and will strike a chord with many people who have no connection with politics at all.
That is because the rather black humour is grounded in our day to day existence. In Molly we have paranoia as a lifestyle choice as she stumbles from one situation to another, wanting a happy and normal life, oblivious to the fact that if she just switched off an over-active imagination then she would see that that is something she already has.
Along the way, we meet Max, her husband who is paying too much attentoin to one particular client and who is suspected of dallying with a nymphomaniac neighbour with standing naked at her window on refuse collection days. And there is Greg, who is Molly's partner in crime at the constituency office and who assists her in her fantasy pursuit of Johnny Hunter, oil tycoon, when he he is not devising ways of getting his own back on the 'usual suspects'.
The usual suspects included Miss Chambers, who appears to have a voice like a foghorn and no off switch, Mr. Beales, who often pops up in the most inconvenient of places, camera in hand and Mr. Meeeeurghn, a convicted murderer living in a homeless hostel, who harbours a grudge against his local Primark store.
And then there is Molly's family: her wayward father who constantly embarrasses her on his many trips to Thailand, her daughter who is at university and seeking part-time employment on her own terms and an accident-prone son, whose idea of fun is to film pranks at the local supermarket.
Add into this the flrtatious Vicky, whose relationship with Andrew Sinclair MP, arouses Molly and Greg's suspicions and leaves them in fear of their jobs and the scene is set for a showdown on a personal and professional level that leaves us wanting more.
I very much enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written, nicely paced and humourous. Definitely one to pack to read at the side of the pool this summer.
As an elected politician, I can easily identify with the situations that the author describes. None of our clients come close to the rather exagerated caricatures she creates of course, but it is the case that we are often the last resort for many people, who have found no way through supposedly insurmountable problems.
We know too that the threat of physical violence and verbal abuse from frustrated and disenfranchised constituents to elected representives and their staff is very real and most of us take precautions to try and protect against that. Very early on this book deals with such a situation in which Molly is grabbed by the throat and held against the wall by a constituent.
However, please do not let me give the impression that this book is about politics because it is not. It has been compared with Bridget Jones' diary and in some ways that is a fair analogy. But it is much more than that. It is funny and will strike a chord with many people who have no connection with politics at all.
That is because the rather black humour is grounded in our day to day existence. In Molly we have paranoia as a lifestyle choice as she stumbles from one situation to another, wanting a happy and normal life, oblivious to the fact that if she just switched off an over-active imagination then she would see that that is something she already has.
Along the way, we meet Max, her husband who is paying too much attentoin to one particular client and who is suspected of dallying with a nymphomaniac neighbour with standing naked at her window on refuse collection days. And there is Greg, who is Molly's partner in crime at the constituency office and who assists her in her fantasy pursuit of Johnny Hunter, oil tycoon, when he he is not devising ways of getting his own back on the 'usual suspects'.
The usual suspects included Miss Chambers, who appears to have a voice like a foghorn and no off switch, Mr. Beales, who often pops up in the most inconvenient of places, camera in hand and Mr. Meeeeurghn, a convicted murderer living in a homeless hostel, who harbours a grudge against his local Primark store.
And then there is Molly's family: her wayward father who constantly embarrasses her on his many trips to Thailand, her daughter who is at university and seeking part-time employment on her own terms and an accident-prone son, whose idea of fun is to film pranks at the local supermarket.
Add into this the flrtatious Vicky, whose relationship with Andrew Sinclair MP, arouses Molly and Greg's suspicions and leaves them in fear of their jobs and the scene is set for a showdown on a personal and professional level that leaves us wanting more.
I very much enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written, nicely paced and humourous. Definitely one to pack to read at the side of the pool this summer.
December 30, 2022
At the start of this book, I wondered what I was going to be reading for 513 pages! But, as I got in to it, it really spoke to me.
Molly has a run of the mill life, just like the rest of us. She is comfortably married, with 2 kids who are at each others throats, constantly. It's enough to drive you mad! Couple that with living next door to a sex mad beauty queen, and your husbands lack of affections, it's easy to see why the things in this book happened.
Everything in the book is relatable and that made it a thoroughly enjoyable read. I wanted to throttle Ellen (just like Molly), I detested Vicky (just like Molly) and I wish I worked with a Greg!
After reading this book, I will read a Polly James book again!
Molly has a run of the mill life, just like the rest of us. She is comfortably married, with 2 kids who are at each others throats, constantly. It's enough to drive you mad! Couple that with living next door to a sex mad beauty queen, and your husbands lack of affections, it's easy to see why the things in this book happened.
Everything in the book is relatable and that made it a thoroughly enjoyable read. I wanted to throttle Ellen (just like Molly), I detested Vicky (just like Molly) and I wish I worked with a Greg!
After reading this book, I will read a Polly James book again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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